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A standalone freezer is a handy appliance to have at your disposal for additional storage space. These freezers, on average, have a lifespan of about 15 years which translates into a durable appliance. Regardless of the durability, a standalone freezer is still going to need repairs and maintenance.

Many times, the problems that may arise are going to be ones that the owner is going to be able to handle on their own. “Any serious problems should be handled by a professional, but there are plenty that can be handled by the owner,” says John Chambers, owner of Choice, specializing in appliance repair in Hawthorne. Here is a list of common issues that these freezers have and some tips on how you can troubleshoot them at home.

FREEZER TROUBLESHOOTING

FREEZER REPAIR

Here is a list of common issues that these freezers have and some tips on how you can troubleshoot them at home:

FREEZER WON’T START

There are three different things that are involved in making sure that your freezer turns on; the thermostat, the start relay, and the start capacitor. Before you test any of these, you need to check the obvious first. Make sure that the machine is plugged in and that all of the circuit breakers are all still in the on position.

FREEZER NOT COLD ENOUGH

If a freezer is too warm, then it just isn’t doing its’ job. This problem can likely be contributed to a thermostat, user control, or the defrost timer. This is a serious problem and it needs to be handled quickly so that all of the food in the freezer doesn’t thaw out and go bad. It is serious enough that you may need to call in a professional.

FREEZER TOO COLD

It is possible for a freezer to get too cold and that is when it drops below 0 degrees Fahrenheit (this is the ideal temperature for a freezer). The same parts that will cause a freezer to be too warm are going to cause it to be too cold as well. You can check the temperature with a handheld thermometer. The parts that you are going to need to check are the temperature control, thermostat, or user control.

FREEZER CONTINUES RUNNING

When the freezer continues to run for no reason, you will need to check the temperature control, defrost thermostat, and the defrost timer. These parts are easy to buy on the internet or right from the manufacturer. You can also tap into local repair companies to get a hold of the part that you need and then simply replace it.

BUILDUP OF FREEZER FROST

Frost is normal, but then there is an amount of frost that is going to affect how the freezer functions. When it gets to this point, there are a few things that are going to have to check so that you can get this problem fixed. The defrost thermostat is the first thing to check and if this isn’t the problem, check the door gaskets and the defrost timer. The defrost timer should be the first thing to check because it is directly responsible for making sure that the freezer properly defrost.

NOISES COMING FROM FREEZER

When an appliance is making unusually loud noises, it is the first sign that something is wrong. When this happens with a freezer, the first thing to check is the evaporator blade. It is a simple part to buy and replace, but there is always the option to call in a professional to do it for you.

These common problems are easy to fix on your own. When it comes to more rare and complicated problems, you are going to need to call in a professional to fix the freezer. Take the time to make sure that your freezer is working right so that you don’t lose all of the money in food or consider hiring a professional appliance repair service. We recommend the following companies:

No kitchen is complete without a refrigerator. It’s a standard appliance in all homes throughout America. Refrigerators often include a freezer and come in various sizes and styles – including side-by-side, top freezer, bottom freezer and French door. There are several brands to choose from as well. Amana is one popular brand. “You should purchase a refrigerator that suits your lifestyle and accommodates everyone in your home,” says Darrin Sanders, specialist of appliance repair in Suffolk.

You will find that most refrigerators start to experience issues after 10 years. Better brands can last longer. You can extend the lifetime of a refrigerator with proper use and maintenance. Learn as much about the model you own from the manuals included with purchase. The more you know about your refrigerator, the better chance you can repair it if an issue does occur. Below, we have listed some of the most common problems that occur on refrigerators. You can contact us with questions concerning the list below or reach out to a local appliance repair company for their service (recommendations below).

REFRIGERATOR TROUBLESHOOTING

REFRIGERATOR REPAIR

The list includes troubleshooting tips, common causes for issues and recommendations for refrigerator repair service providers in areas of the USA:

LOUD REFRIGERATOR

Loud sounds are often the first sign of an appliance wearing down, whether it be the entire machine or one of the many parts inside. In the event loud noises start coming from a refrigerator, it is best to inspect the evaporator fan motor. You should also examine the condenser fan motor at the bottom of the appliance. One of these motors is likely the source of the loud noises and will need to be replaced in order to eliminate the sound.

LEAKING REFRIGERATOR

You never want a leaking appliance. A leak is a sign of interior damage and water on the floor of your home can lead to property damage or an injury. You should address a leaking refrigerator right away. To do so, first inspect the water inlet valve inside of the appliance. This valve is connected to the water line on the back of the refrigerator. Another cause for a leaking refrigerator is a problem with the door latch or seal. This is a minor repair most homeowners can complete on their own.

REFRIGERATOR WON’T START

The most common reason a refrigerator is without power is either (a) it is not plugged in or (b) a circuit breaker in the house tripped. Be sure the appliance is plugged into the outlet and that there is no damage to the cord and take a look at the circuit breaker box in the home for any tripped circuits. If neither are the problem, inspect the compressor overload relay as well as the thermostat on the refrigerator. You can also enlist the help of a professional to identify the problem on the refrigerator.

NOT MAKING ICE

A refrigerator with a freezer unit typically includes an ice maker in most modern models. Unfortunately, ice makers are prone to several issues, including not making ice or making it extremely slow. The reasons for this problem are the water inlet valve as well as the water fill tubes. The ice maker itself could be broken too. Look over all three parts and determine which is causing the problem and then replace that part. You can purchase new ice maker parts from online appliance part distributors.

TEMPERATURE TOO WARM

The worst problem with a refrigerator is if it isn’t cold enough to keep the food and beverages inside cool. The air inlet damper is one of the parts often responsible for this problem. Locate the air inlet damper and determine if it is still working correct or not. Then inspect the evaporator fan motor before examining the defrost thermostat, defrost heater and defrost timer. Because it can be hard to identify the cause of this problem, we advise calling a professional appliance repair company in order to ensure the refrigerator is fixed before food starts to spoil.

FREEZER TEMPERATURE TOO COLD

Believe it or not, both a freezer and refrigerator can get too cold. This can lead to frost on food and ruin it. The extreme cold can also put stress on the appliance. To determine the source of the problem, first inspect the thermistor and the temperature control on the refrigerator. Adjust the settings accordingly if set to too cold of a temperature. The next part to examine is the thermostat on the freezer and the defrost timer. Because this problem can ruin the food inside the refrigerator or freezer, it is best to address it ASAP or call on the services of a refrigerator repairman.

A refrigerator is more complicated than some other household appliances. We do feel that a homeowner can complete several of the repairs above, however, due to the complicated nature of the appliance, we often recommend hiring a professional for refrigerator repair and freezer repair. It is always best to call for help instead of attempting a repair and creating additional or worse problems in the process. Here are some of the best appliance repair companies to call on for refrigerator repair:

Dehumidifiers are considered a small appliance. The machine reduces humidity levels in a home and helps to reduce the amount of allergens in the air. Dehumidifiers also reduce stress on air conditioners. Haier is considered to be the best dehumidifier brand. You do not have to replace a dehumidifier if it no longer turns on, collects water or if other problems occur. You can repair all of the parts of a dehumidifier and similar small appliances with the correct process, tools and parts.

Homeowners can save money in the long run by learning to repair small appliances on their own or hiring professional appliance repairmen for an affordable cost. APEX is here to help! The list below features some of the most common dehumidifier problems and how to repair them. You can contact us at any time or reach out to a local appliance repair service for their assistance.

DEHUMIDIFIER TROUBLESHOOTING

DEHUMIDIFIER REPAIR

Below is a list of problems that can occur on a residential dehumidifier unit including tips to troubleshoot and repair the issue:

“FULL” INDICATOR INCORRECT

There is a light indicator on a dehumidifier to notify the homeowner the water fill bucket is full and needs to be emptied. The indicator light should only turn on if the bucket is full. If the light turns on and the bucket is empty, inspect the float assembly for any possible malfunctions. Then review the float switch, sensor assembly and control board to determine the source of the error.

DEHUMIDIFIER WON’T TURN ON

The main reason a dehumidifier won’t start or turn on is if the appliance is unplugged. Be sure the cord is plugged in and also double check that no circuit breakers are in the “OFF” position before continuing to inspect the dehumidifier. The parts on the appliance that can cause this problem to occur are the float assembly, sensor, humidistat, auto shutoff feature and control board. The level of damage will determine whether there is need to hire an appliance repairman near you.

ICING ON COILS

Be on the lookout for ice on the coils of the appliance. This is a common problem that requires immediate attention from the homeowner or a professional technician. You will want to review the machine’s manual for specifications unique to the model and then troubleshoot the humidity control on the appliance. Also inspect the bi-metal thermostat and the fan motor in the process for any issues.

WON’T COLLECT AIR MOISTURE

The main purpose of a dehumidifier is to collect and store the moisture from the air in a home. Your appliance is broken if it is not collecting moisture inside the bucket. This repair will require you to inspect several parts of the dehumidifier. The capacitor is a good place to start. “I recommend reviewing the fan motor, overload and control board on the machine for any signs of damage or malfunction,” says Craig Porter of appliance repair in Whittier.

DEHUMIDIFIER WON’T REMAIN ON

Homeowners will generally run a dehumidifier on a constant basis during humid seasons which means the machine needs to stay on for long periods of time. If the dehumidifier is turning off unexpectedly, you will want to troubleshoot several parts of the appliance to determine the cause. The sensor on the machine is the first place to look and then the humidity control after that.

APEX is of the opinion that the standard homeowner can complete most of the repairs listed above. However, we never recommend proceeding with a repair you are not 100% comfortable with. In this case, it is our recommendation to review local appliance repair companies near your home to find one able to complete dehumidifier repair. We have identified a handful of local companies able to do so:

A dishwasher is a must-own appliance for most homeowners. You can save yourself several hours each week by installing a dishwasher in your kitchen. The downside is that a dishwasher is not the most durable type of kitchen appliance. A good brand and model will only last 10 years before issues start to arise. You can repair some of these issues on your own. Others will need the attention of a professional appliance repair company.

APEX has created a list of some of the most common dishwasher issues and how to repair them. Several of the repairs require no more than 30-60 minutes to complete. Others are more serious and will require scheduling service from an appliance repairman near your home. Please contact us with questions.

DISHWASHER TROUBLESHOOTING

DISHWASHER REPAIR

Below are troubleshooting tips from APEX for some of the main problems you will find on a broken dishwasher:

LOUD/NOISY

A common symptom for any broken appliance is for loud noises to come from the machine. This is true of dishwashers too. There are different loud noises and each signifies a different issue. “You will need to determine if the noise is a rattle coming from the pump housing or more of a grinding sound from a worn-down washer arm bearing. Then you will need to replace the malfunctioning part during the repair,” according to Jeff Stevens, Lead Technician Victory Indio Appliance Repair.

A dishwasher requires several gallons of water to operate each cycle. A leak could lead to gallons of water on the floor of your kitchen and home and requires immediate attention. In the event of a leaking dishwasher, we recommend hiring an appliance repair service able to provide same-day attention. Otherwise, DIY repairs should start by looking for worn pump and door seals or a failed water inlet valve.

NO POWER

The most obvious reason a dishwasher won’t turn on or start is if it is not plugged in. The other reason is if a circuit breaker isn’t switched on. If neither of these issues are the problem you will need to investigate further and check to see if the timers, door latch switches, motor relays, thermal fuses and electronic controls are all working as expected. This can lead to a major repair where professional assistance is required.

WON’T FILL/DRAIN

The first step in a dishwasher cycle is for the unit to fill with water. If this doesn’t occur, then there is a problem that needs attention. You should inspect the float switch, door switch and the water inlet valve. The second step is for the unit to drain all of the water before the drying function begins. In the event the water doesn’t drain, test the dishwasher drain hose, pump and timer.

DETERGENT DOESN’T DISPENSE

As a dishwasher fills with water, it should also dispense detergent throughout the appliance in order to clean the dirty dishes inside. The dishes won’t be clean if there is no detergent released. This issue is the result of a broken wax motor, timer or bi-metal release. Also be sure the detergent capsule is full before turning on the appliance to wash dishes.

All homeowners have different comfort levels when it comes to performing repair projects. Your comfort level and experience will determine your ability to complete the repairs above on your own or whether it would be best to rely on the help of a professional handyman or appliance repair company near your home. Should you decide to hire an appliance repairman, we recommend the following companies for dishwasher repair:

You will find a garbage disposal or food waste disposer in almost every kitchen sink in America. This means it is one of the most common household appliances. A garbage disposal is prone to several issues during its lifetime including both minor and major repairs.

The guide below offers tips on troubleshooting common garbage disposal problems and models – including the InSinkErator from Emerson – and how to fix them. Several of the repairs can be completed in 15-30 minutes and do not require professional training or attention. Others we recommend enlisting an appliance repairman for.

GARBAGE DISPOSAL TROUBLESHOOTING

GARBAGE DISPOSAL REPAIR

Below are troubleshooting tips from APEX for some of the main issues that occur on food waste disposers:

BURNING SMELL

It is not uncommon for a burning smell to come out of a garbage disposal on occasion. The source of the burning smell is either its motor or motor capacitor. The smell is the result of the motor overheating which can be caused by food or other objects being jammed in the unit. “Turn off the power and then clear the unit of any debris or clogs. Flush water through the unit and attempt to run it,” says Tim O’Brien, owner of a local appliance repair service in Livermore. If the burning smell persists, you will need to call an appliance repair company near you or replace the garbage disposal.

UNPLEASANT ODOR

The most obvious reason for an odor coming from a garbage disposal is food or waste stuck in the appliance. Be sure the power is turned off and the unit is unplugged and then attempt to clear the motor and blades with a tool. If the smell persists, the stopper and splash guards might need to be replaced on the unit.

WON’T START

The first thing to be sure of if a garbage disposal won’t start is that the device is plugged in beneath the sink. The other thing to check is if a circuit breaker tripped. You can also press the “reset” button on the garbage disposal and then attempt to turn it on. If the problem persists, there is likely an issue with the starter/stopper switch on the unit and it will need to be replaced. The starter/stopper switch is also often the reason a garbage disposal will shut off in the middle of operating.

LEAKS & DRIPS

Your garbage disposal should have a tight seal within the sink drain. If leaks start to occur from the unit the problem is either the seals or the gaskets on the unit. You can easily replace both the seals and the gaskets by removing the garbage disposal from the sink and then interchanging them with new ones. This repair is relatively easy should not require a professional appliance repair service for completion.

LOUD NOISES

You will hear loud noises coming from a garbage disposal if something solid falls into it when it is turned on. You will also hear grinding noises if there is too much food or waste or the appliance is jammed at all. The loud noises can also be the result of loose or dull blades. The blades can be tightened with ease if the unit is removed from the kitchen sink. Dull blades are the sign of an old garbage disposal and it could be time to consider replacing the appliance entirely.

Your comfort level will determine how many of the repairs above you can complete on your own. If at any time during a repair you are not comfortable continuing, we recommend hiring an appliance repair service able to complete the job for you. Here are some professional companies we recommend for garbage disposal repair: